Statue honoring fallen hero Robert Abajyan unveiled outside Yerevan school

A statue honoring Artsakh Hero Robert Abajyan, who was killed at the age of 19 during the April 2016 war, was inaugurated in the courtyard of Yerevan’s No. 147 Basic School, which bears his name, as Armenia marked the 34th anniversary of its army on Wednesday.

The ceremony brought together a large number of students and teachers despite the non-working day, along with intellectuals, public figures, relatives and friends of Abajyan and other soldiers who died defending the homeland.

Abajyan’s name has become a symbol of resilience, devotion and sacrifice, Deputy School Director A. Vardanyan said during the event.

“His name stands for freedom, endurance and dedication,” she said. “He was one of thousands of young men who proved that love for the homeland is shown not with words, but with blood, devotion and self-sacrifice. With a mix of sorrow and pride, we unveil this monument that eternalizes Robert Abajyan’s memory — it is our memory, our faith and our vow that the names of heroes will never be forgotten.”

Vardanyan added that everyone who stands before the statue should understand the price paid for Artsakh, Armenia, and the right to remain Armenian.